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How is your relationship with your primary care doctor? When was the last time that you went for a full exam? During your exam, do you feel comfortable enough with the doctor to ask questions or tell him or her about any problems that you have been experiencing? For many years, I went to a doctor that I wasn't necessarily fond of because I didn't want to go through the hassle of changing the PCP with my insurance. This caused me to skip many exams that I should have had and prevented me from talking about any problems that I had been having. This blog will help you understand the importance of a good relationship with your PCP.

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When you are feeling under the weather, it is easy to panic and head off to the doctor. Unfortunately, most doctors cannot do anything about the common cold. However, if you have something more severe, then a trip to the doctor is advised.

The problem with a common cold, though, is that it might turn into something more severe. So how do you know when it's a simple cold versus something more dangerous or life-threatening? Here are four signs:

1. You Have a Fever

A common cold usually does not cause a fever. If you do experience a fever, especially a high fever of 102-degrees or more, it is likely you are dealing with something other than the common cold. A fever may represent an infection, such as a sinus infection, or something more serious. So if you experience a high fever, definitely head to a medical clinic.

2. You Feel Better, But Get Worse

Sometimes people will feel the onset of a cold, only to find that it goes away. However, if it comes back quickly and you feel even worse, it may be a sign of something more serious. Super bugs and infections often leave you feeling bad, better, and then worse. This cycle of sickness occurs because the body fights the initial virus or infection, but then the virus or infection gets stronger, and you wind up feeling crummy again. If you experience this, head to a medical clinic immediately. You may need antibiotics to fight the infection.

3. You Have Debilitating Headaches

A headache is a common symptom of a cold. However, the headache will usually be mild and will not interfere with daily tasks. If you experience a headache so severe that it is debilitating and you cannot function or concentrate, head to the doctor immediately. The severe headache may be caused by meningitis or something else.

You should also visit a medical clinic if you are experiencing a headache that is not lessened by over-the-counter pain relievers. This may also be a sign of something serious that needs attention.

4. You Have a Chronic Ailment

A common cold is usually not a problem for healthy people. However, if you already have an underlying condition, it may be. Common health problems like COPD, diabetes, and hypothyroidism can be worsened by a cold. The same is true for those with autoimmune disorders.

Although a common cold is not fun, it is a part of life. Staying home in bed with plenty of water is usually the best course of action. However, if you experience any of these conditions, make sure you visit a medical clinic such as Summit View Clinic.